On Monday evening, October 25, 1937, a few saints met at the home of Brother and Sister Marvin Thompson to discuss the possibility of beginning a Church of God congregation on the east side of Columbus. These saints were, at that time, members of the Burnside Church of God on the west side, presently known as the Wayne Avenue Church of God.

Although the records are not conclusive, Marvin and Essie Thompson, Emma Bush, Mattie Jackson and Henrietta Viney were among those who felt “led of the Holy Spirit to begin a work on the east side.”

The first service was held on March 13, 1938. Since that faithful day, the First Church of God has worshipped at the following Columbus, Ohio locations:

On Fathers Day, Sunday, June 18, 2000 under the leadership of Bishop Timothy J. Clarke, the congregation took possession of 124 acres and began worshipping at the “City of Refuge”, 3480 Refugee Road.

First Church is a local assembly that has membership in and fellowship with the Church of God Reformation Movement. The Church of God Reformation Movement has earthly headquarters in Anderson, Indiana and has churches in every state of the U.S. as well as a strong witness in many nations of the world.

First Church is also affiliated with the National Association of the Church of God (NACOG), a group of African-American Church of God congregations. The NACOG is headquartered in West Middlesex, Pennsylvania.

Our membership and association with both of these bodies is voluntary and they in no manner dictate or direct the affairs of this local assembly. First Church is autonomous in terms of government and does not answer to any “higher” assembly or board. First Church is a growing church, one that is enjoying the blessings of God and a season of true revival.

Pastors and Interim Pastors who have served First Church of God

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